‘Famous and broke’ artists struggle under outdated copyright laws

Despite producing hits that dominate local radio airwaves and social media platforms, many Namibian artists say the country’s outdated copyright bill, revenue systems and lack of structured support are pushing musicians to the brink.

Local kwaito artist David Shikalepo, popularly known as Exit Rockaz, told Namibian Sun that the biggest challenge facing musicians is the stark mismatch between visibility and income.

“Namibia barely has a culture of paying for music. People love the music – they stream it, they share it – but when it comes to putting money down, there’s a disconnect,” he said.

He said many artists often spend heavily on studio productions, marketing and transport without any hope of earning it back.

“The digital space should be our biggest revenue stream, but right now it feels more like a billboard we put up for free,” he added.

Potential earnings whittled away

Artist union member and label owner Sula Kyababa believes the root of the problem lies in Namibia’s legal framework, particularly the country’s copyright system.

He warned that the pressure of being “famous and broke” is taking a toll on artists’ well-being.

“Artists don’t make money in Namibia. That’s why some might turn to drugs or alcohol, or even steal due to frustration,” he suggested.

“Namibia uses an outdated copyright bill, which means Namibian artists don’t get paid properly for their music on digital platforms,” Kyababa said.

He questioned how record labels are expected to grow under such conditions. “Why should I reinvest in the industry by signing new artists while I can’t make back the money I invested in signing them?”

Kyababa further criticised what he described as a focus on glamorous events instead of structural reform.

“The copyright bill is very important. Why rush to bring back the NAMAs while the copyright bill is collecting dust?”

Mental health strain

Exit Rockaz raised concerns about mental health under the current status quo, saying the pressure to maintain a public image while struggling privately can be overwhelming.

“When you couple financial anxiety with feeling like your talent isn’t being rewarded, people look for relief wherever they can find it. I’ve seen it happen to people I respect,” he said.

He called for stronger intervention from the arts and culture ministry, the Namibian Society of Composers and Authors of Music (Nascam) and private stakeholders.

“We need investment in real mental health resources, counselling, rehabilitation and financial crisis support,” he stressed.

Nascam maintains separation

The Namibian Society of Composers and Authors of Music (Nascam) maintains a strict separation between the music business and artists’ personal lives, said Joseph Tuhafeni Ailonga, board chairperson.

When asked about kwaito artist Kaboy Kamakili’s recent imprisonment and bail on charges of theft, as well as artist Young T’s arrest for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol, Ailonga emphasised that Nascam does not comment on artists’ legal or personal matters.

Addressing the possible link between financial struggles and behavioural issues, Ailonga used a blunt analogy.

“If an artist is caught drinking and driving, that has nothing to do with the artist not having money. That’s a personal situation and we don’t deal with that,” he noted.

Hope for reform

Exit Rockaz said he remains hopeful that the long-discussed copyright and related rights bill could bring change.

“A bill is only as powerful as its implementation,” he said.

“I want transparent royalty distribution so artists know exactly what they’re owed and when. The bill needs teeth.”